Warnock announcement 'premature'

Crystal Palace have claimed QPR's confirmation that Neil Warnock has been appointed as manager at Loftus Road is "premature".

Palace confirmed Warnock's departure after two and a half years as manager on Monday night, shortly before Rangers announced the 61-year-old's appointment.

"The club is aware of the statement issued by Queens Park Rangers," said Palace administrator Brendan Guilfoyle in a statement issued by the Selhurst Park club. "The club believes that this is somewhat premature."

QPR claimed to have agreed compensation with Palace for Warnock, who is expected to take coaches Keith Curle and Mick Jones with him to Rangers after caretaker boss Mick Harford and his assistant Tony Coton left on Monday.

"Discussions are ongoing regarding the release of Neil Warnock and members of his managerial team but these remain subject to agreement of relevant documentation."

Paul Hart, who was in charge at Loftus Road for a month before walking out in January, has emerged as a candidate for the vacant Palace job.